Kindbridge Report Exposes Elevated Problem Gambling Rates in Firefighters and Police

A new report by the Kindbridge Research Institute finds significant gambling-related harms among first responders. Released to mark Responsible Gambling Month, the study was funded by a grant from the Colorado Division of Gaming, with EPIC Global Solutions as research partner. It surveyed 507 firefighters, police officers, emergency medical technicians, paramedics, and rescue personnel, according to CDC Gaming.

94.5% had gambled in the last 12 months. 44% met criteria for problem gambling and 39% were at risk. Firefighters recorded the highest exposure, with 49% meeting problem gambling criteria and 29% at moderate risk. Police showed 42% at the problem level.

50% of the sample screened positive for possible PTSD symptoms. Researchers found a strong association between PTSD symptom severity and gambling harm risk. Those with military experience faced markedly higher vulnerability: 69.6% of current service members met problem gambling criteria versus 36.5% with none.

Mark Lucia, KRI’s director of programming, said: “First responders operate in environments defined by repeated exposure to trauma, high responsibility, and unpredictable stress. While substantial attention has been given to conditions such as PTSD and burnout, gambling has remained largely under explored.”

Greg Weber, a former firefighter who originated the study concept, said gambling is normalized and talked about often at the firehouse. He cited an anonymous 2024 survey at the New Jersey State FMBA convention that showed higher-than-average numbers for risk and harm.

The 40-page report recommends integrating gambling screening into mental-health and wellness programs, developing role-specific education and prevention, and expanding support for those with current or prior military service.

Trauma Exposure and Occupational Gambling Patterns

Firefighters gambled more often than police, with 38% betting two or more days per week against 28% for officers. The study ties these patterns to shift structures, downtime, and team culture that can embed gambling as a response to repeated trauma. A clinical gambling disorder requires at least four of nine criteria over 12 months, such as tolerance, chasing losses, or jeopardizing relationships.

The Need for Role-Specific Prevention Strategies

These results show that standard responsible gambling measures overlook the distinct pressures on first responders. Agencies and regulators must embed targeted screening in existing PTSD support systems. Failure to do so leaves trauma-linked gambling risks unaddressed in professions where betting is already normalized.

Reporting: CDC Gaming

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